Effortless Rivet Extraction: The Ultimate Guide To Drilling Rivets Out

Rivets are commonly used to join two pieces of metal together, but sometimes it becomes necessary to remove them. Drilling rivets out can be a tricky task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done safely and effectively. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know about how to drill rivets out, from choosing the right drill bit to safely removing the rivet.

Safety First

Before you begin drilling out rivets, it is essential to take safety precautions. Wear appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask. Ensure that the workpiece is securely clamped to prevent it from moving while you are drilling.

Choosing the Right Drill Bit

The type of drill bit you need will depend on the size and material of the rivet. For most rivets, a standard high-speed steel (HSS) drill bit will suffice. However, for larger or harder rivets, you may need to use a carbide-tipped drill bit.

Preparing the Rivet

Before drilling out the rivet, it is essential to prepare it by removing any paint or other coatings. This will help the drill bit to grip the rivet better and prevent it from slipping. You can use a wire brush or a sanding block to remove the coatings.

Drilling the Rivet

Once the rivet is prepared, you can begin drilling it out. Start by drilling a small pilot hole in the center of the rivet head. This will help to guide the drill bit and prevent it from wandering. Then, gradually increase the size of the drill bit until you have drilled through the rivet head.

Removing the Rivet

Once you have drilled through the rivet head, you can remove the rivet by using a punch and hammer. Place the punch on the head of the rivet and tap it with a hammer until the rivet falls out.

Finishing Up

After you have removed the rivet, you may need to clean up the hole. You can use a countersink bit to countersink the hole so that it is flush with the surface of the metal. You can also use a deburring tool to remove any burrs from the hole.

Tips for Drilling Rivets Out

• Use a sharp drill bit. A dull drill bit will be more likely to slip and damage the rivet or the workpiece.
• Drill slowly and carefully. Drilling too quickly can cause the rivet to spin and damage the workpiece.
• Use a lubricant. A lubricant will help to keep the drill bit cool and prevent it from seizing.
• Clamp the workpiece securely. A loose workpiece can move while you are drilling, which can damage the rivet or the drill bit.
• Wear safety gear. Always wear appropriate safety gear when drilling rivets out.

Troubleshooting

• If the drill bit slips, try using a larger drill bit.
• If the rivet spins, try using a punch and hammer to hold it in place.
• If the drill bit breaks, stop drilling and remove the broken bit. Then, start drilling again with a new drill bit.

Final Thoughts

Drilling rivets out can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done safely and effectively. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can remove rivets from your workpiece with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best way to remove a rivet without drilling it out?

A: If the rivet is accessible from the back, you can use a rivet gun to squeeze the rivet head until it breaks off.

Q: Can I use a drill press to drill out rivets?

A: Yes, a drill press can be used to drill out rivets. However, it is important to use a sharp drill bit and to drill slowly and carefully.

Q: What is the best way to clean up a hole after drilling out a rivet?

A: You can use a countersink bit to countersink the hole so that it is flush with the surface of the metal. You can also use a deburring tool to remove any burrs from the hole.